The slow boat journey down the Mekong from the Thai border at Houay Xai to Luang Prabang is an unforgettable experience. When Laos first opened to tourists, travellers would ride on the many cargo boats that run up and down the river. Now dedicated passenger boats ply the rivers with comfortable seats – although this doesn't detract from the experience at all.More

The compact capital of Laos, Vientiane is strung out along the Mekong bordering Thailand. The city is small and laid back but has a surprisingly cosmopolitan outlook for the capital of one of the worlds least developed countries.More